Striving for Consistency: My Journey of Running 100K Every Month

In August 2018, I embarked on a personal challenge: to run 100 kilometers each month. What started as a personal goal soon became a journey of resilience, determination, and consistency. Despite the unpredictable nature of life, I committed myself to this endeavor, pushing my limits and striving for excellence month after month.

Since then, I have maintained a rigorous schedule, lacing up my shoes and hitting the pavement regardless of the weather, my schedule, or any obstacles that may arise. Running 100 kilometers per month equates to roughly 3-4 kilometers per day—a manageable yet demanding target that requires dedication and discipline.

Admittedly, there have been months where completing the 100 kilometers seemed insurmountable. Life's challenges, unexpected events, and moments of fatigue tested my resolve. Even in those challenging months where I fell short of my target, I would make up for it in the subsequent months.

In reflecting on the journey, I must acknowledge the trials and triumphs that have defined each step along the way. January 2024, in particular, stands out as a testament to the resilience and determination required to pursue my goal. It was a month fraught with challenges—both physical and personal—that put my commitment to the test.

During that month, I found myself battling illness for eight long days, setting me back significantly as I strived to maintain my monthly running goal. To compound matters, the weather in Bentonville, Arkansas, where I reside, reached its fiercest, presenting formidable obstacles to my daily runs. Additionally, personal and family commitments demanded my attention, further complicating an already arduous situation.

I committed myself to consistency, steadfastly adhering to my daily routine despite the obstacles that stood in my path. Determined to make up for lost time, I embarked on a grueling journey, completing 5 kilometers every day for 15 consecutive days to catch up on the 100 kilometers I had missed earlier in the month.

A portion of my miles are logged in Samsung Health, while the remainder are recorded in Strava. Social fitness applications serve as invaluable tools for motivation, providing a supportive community environment where individuals can inspire and encourage one another to achieve greater feats and sustain positive habits. Engaging in such platforms fosters a sense of accountability and camaraderie, motivating individuals to push beyond their limits and strive for continual improvement.

My perspective on running was profoundly altered after reading the book "Born to Run". It illuminated the remarkable endurance and capabilities inherent in human beings, offering a wealth of inspiration and insight. It reinforced the notion that a runner's spirit perseveres regardless of outcomes. There were days when I initially decided to skip my morning run and opted to sleep in. However, I found myself lacing up my shoes and hitting the pavement nonetheless, driven by the power of my ingrained routine. This underscores the significance of a consistent morning regimen.

Reflecting on this journey, I am reminded of the unpredictable nature of life. Destiny has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect it. I made a pact with a higher power, acknowledging that while the credit may be attributed to divine intervention, the sweat, perseverance, and hard work remain mine to claim.

As I continue on this journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities, and challenges that have shaped me along the way. Whether rain or shine, triumph or setback, I remain steadfast in my commitment to running 100 kilometers every month.

In the end, it is not solely about the distance covered or the miles logged—it is about the journey itself and the profound lessons it imparts. With each passing month, I am reminded of the transformative power of consistency, dedication, and unwavering faith.

So here's to the road ahead—to the countless miles yet to be traversed and the challenges waiting to be conquered. With each step forward, I am reminded of the words that echo in my heart: the credit goes to you, and the hard work stays with me.

P.S.: I utilized AI assistance in crafting this blog.